After years of struggle, Matthew Henson placed the American flag at the North Pole, but because of racial prejudice, the African-American explorer received no glory for this historic moment. All around the world, Henson's employer, Admiral Robert E. Peary, was celebrated as the first person to reach the top of the world. It was not until decades later that Henson's contribution was acknowledged. In this riveting biography, author Laura Baskes Litwin captures the challenges of Henson's life and the excitement of the polar expeditions. Henson's bravery, survival skills, physical prowess, and fluent command of the Inuit language made Peary's quest for the North Pole a reality.